the art of discipline

By: darlene darezzo

discipline for kids 101

Svadhyaya, translated as self-inquiry, self-study, or reflection on oneself, is the fourth of the five Niyamas of Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras. The Niyamas are personal disciplines, or guidelines, pertaining to our daily activities. They are evident in our actions, words, and thoughts as well as discipline for kids.

Understanding Svadhyaya in Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras

Svadhyaya—consciously examining our own nature—opens us to an understanding of ourselves (and others). Classically, sacred texts and spiritual teachers were considered to be the sources for one’s self-awakening. To apply svadhyaya to the modern context, countless activities can lead us to ourselves — painting, reading, writing, walking and certainly, raising children.

The Role of Discipline in Parenting

Discipline is an integral part of the parenting process and can be an emotionally charged issue for many. Parents may worry about misbehavior and how it should be dealt with. Some parents may become angry, frustrated, confused and discouraged by ongoing behavior problems. 

Effective discipline is a learning process for both parents and children. The word discipline derives its root from a latin verb meaning, to learn, as does the word disciple, and can be interpreted as the desire to learn or, may be understood as an educational or training process — a process that requires patience, planning and practice, as does tapas (self-discipline).

Discipline serves to create and maintain a safe and sound environment for children to learn intrapersonal and interpersonal skills. Discipline teaches children to exercise self-control, make good choices and take responsibility for their actions. Effective discipline produces confident, considerate, responsible and independent children. 

Differentiating Discipline from Punishment

Discipline is not the same as punishment. Punishment intimidates, harms and humiliates children. Punishment focuses on past misbehavior and the idea that pain is part of the learning process. It does not help children behave better, nor does it teach children how to account for and be responsible for their actions.

Punishment may be physical: hitting, spanking and paddling. It may be psychological as in disapproval, isolation and shaming. It may be verbal as in using harsh words.

The Adverse Effects of Harsh Punishment

Children who are constantly or harshly punished often suffer depression, anxiety and feelings of hopelessness. They are also at risk for emotional and behavioral disorders and exhibit increased levels of aggression and anti-social behavior. Punishment forces submission, whereas discipline encourages and provides children with the tools  to self-discipline.

Self-Discipline: A Cornerstone of Effective Parenting

Disciplining our children begins with our own practice of discipline, or tapas. Tapas, often translated as “fierydiscipline” or burning desire for reunion with the Source through will power, purification and austerity, is the third niyama.Tapas may also be understood as consistency, commitment and great effort — as parents, caregivers and teachers we can be a living teaching example to children by being consistent and dedicated and working hard for their benefit. 

Integrating Tapas, Svadhyaya, and Ishvara Pranidhana in Parenting

Tapas, svadhyaya and ishvara pranidhana (recognition of and devotion to our Source) are all parts of the trifold practice Patanjali calls kriya yoga — yoga in the form of action. Tapas cannot be practiced separately from svadhyaya.

Disciplining our children requires practice of svadhyaya alongside tapas. Therefore, disciplining our children becomes a vehicle for our own self-inquiry, growth and transformation. That is, we cannot effectively discipline our children without learning something about ourselves. And, it is through discipline that children too begin self-reflection.

Reflection and Intention in the Discipline Process

While no parent is perfect and the cultivation of discipline is an ongoing process, ongoing presence and a strong intention are the foundation for healthy results. Here are some ideas to reflect on while disciplining children:

1. How and why am I responding to my child’s misbehavior? 
2. What does my child see in me? Am I modeling what I would like to see in my child?(friendliness, compassion, good will, good eating habits, appropriate ways to share and play, etc.)
3. What are my choices in this situation? Which choice is the best one?
4. What are the consequences of my actions and/or behavior?

Cultivating Self-Awareness and Positive Relationships through Yoga

Yoga is a discipline of freedom — a freedom that comes through self-awareness. Living with others, cultivating positive, harmonious relationships, begins when we learn to live with ourselves. 

The Impact of Discipline on Children’s Self-Understanding

Children who are disciplined come to understand their own behavior, respect themselves and others. Even when a parent is not present, well-disciplined children can reflect on their actions and choices and act in a compassionate, mutually respectful manner. 

If you are looking to deepen your relationships and learn the basics of authentic communication (with yourself and others) take a look at this online course – Transformative Communication – an easy and life-enhancing approach for better relationships.

About the Author: Darlene D’Arezzo

Darlene D’Arezzo is founder and director of KidsYogaCircle.com. She leads yoga classes, workshops and retreats for children, families and teachers.

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